ACHLASAN CHALUIM-CHILLE [165]

SAINT JOHN'S WORT

SAINT JOHN'S wort is known by various names, all significant of the position of the plant in the minds of the people:--'achlasan Chaluim-chille,' armpit package of Columba; 'caod Chaluim-chile,' hail of Columba; 'seun Chaluim-chille,' charm of Columba; 'seud Chaluim chille,' jewel of Columba; 'allus Chaluim-chille,' glory of Columba; 'alla Mhoire,' noble plant of Mary; 'alla-bhi,' 'alla-bhuidhe,' noble yellow plant. Possibly these are pre-Christian terms to which are added the endearing names of Mary and Columba.

Saint John's wort is one of the few plants still cherished by the people to ward away second-sight, enchantment, witchcraft, evil eye, and death, and to ensure peace and plenty in the house, increase and prosperity in the fold, and growth and fruition in the field. The plant is secretly secured in the bodices of the women and in the vests of the men, under the left armpit. Saint John's wort, however, is effective only when the plant is accidentally found.

When this occurs the joy of the finder is great, and gratefully expressed:-- p. 97

Saint John's wort, Saint John's wort, Happy those who have thee, Whoso gets thee in the herd's fold, Shall never be without kine.

[paragraph continues] There is a tradition among the people that Saint Columba carried the plant on his person because of his love and admiration for him who went about preaching Christ, and baptizing the converted, clothed in a garment of camel's hair and fed upon locusts and wild honey.